Vishram Ghat, located in Mathura city of the Mathura district in the Indian state Uttar Pradesh, is regarded as the most significant among the 25 ghats of the city. It is believed that the traditional Parikrama of Brij Bhoomi begins and ends at this ghat. Nestled on the banks of River Yamuna, this sacred ghat hosts a spectacular aarti in the evenings which is attended by a number of devotees. People hailing from distant places float lit lamps in the river which makes the river sparkle with the myriad of lamps. The tradition creates a mesmerizing view which resembles twinkling stars in the clear night sky.
Mythology of Vishram Ghat
The ghat is named as Vishram Ghat because as per the Indian mythology, Lord Krishna is believed to have rested in this place after killing Kansa. The word Vishram refers to taking rest. Some also believe that Lord Varaha, the boar and the third incarnation of Lord Vishnu had rested in this ghat after killing the demon Hiranyaksha. This incident dates back to thousand years ago before he incarnated as Lord Krishna for the eighth time.
History of Vishram Ghat
Vishram Ghat also bears historical significance as over time the site has undergone ravage and reconstruction. Through years, the ghat has been patronized greatly. During the early invasions in the country, the place was devastated badly however its sanctity was restored by two Vaishnavite saints namely Vallabhacharya and Keshav Kashmiri, during the rule of Sikandar Lodi. The tolerant rule of Mughal Emperor Akbar bestowed lavish patronage over the ghat and it was during this time when the repair and embellishments of the temples were done. However later, the place once again suffered much damage.
Religious Significance of Vishram Ghat
Vishram Ghat is dotted by numerous temples which borders the ghat on one side. Many devotees worship at the ghat and take a holy dip in the river. Some of the most important shrines of Mathura can also be located at Vishram Ghat viz. Langali Hanuman, Narasimha, Yamuna-Krishna, Neelkantheshwar, Murli Manohar and Radha-Damodar temples. To the south of Vishram Ghat there are 11 ghats including Buddha Ghat, Ravan Koti Ghat, Surya Ghat, Mokshatirth Ghat, Saptrishi Ghat, Dhruva Ghat, Kankhal Ghat, Ram Ghat, Shyam Ghat, Prayag Ghat and Guptatirth Ghat whereas there as 12 ghats towards its north including Manikarnika Ghat, Asikunda Ghat, Navatirtha (Varahakshetra) Ghat, Vaikunta Ghat, Dharapattan Ghat, Ghantagharan Ghat, Somatirth (Swami) Ghat, Krishnaganga Ghat, Chakratirtha Ghat, Saraswati Sangam Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat and Ganesh Ghat. Near Vishram Ghat, there is located the baithak of the great Vaishnava, Shri Chaitanya.
